The Swedish Language Council reacted angrily to Google's efforts to have the description altered, accusing the firm of attempting to manipulate language in the country.

"If we want to have 'ogooglebar' in the language, then we'll use the word and it's our use that gives it meaning - not a multinational company exerting pressure. Speech must be free," said Ann Cederberg, head of the council.

"It would go against our principles, and the principles of language. Google has forgotten one thing: language development doesn't care about brand protection."

Google responded with the following statement: "While Google, like many businesses, takes routine steps to protect our trademark, we are pleased that users connect the Google name with great search results."

With the two parties unable to reach an agreement, 'ogooglebar' was deleted from the list entirely.